Like so many of you, I am in love with the majestic,
weathered image of an old barn.
weathered image of an old barn.
Not too long ago, I was fortunate enough
to photograph one locally.
to photograph one locally.
The image above is from that shoot,
and it speaks to me in a way I simply cannot describe.
and it speaks to me in a way I simply cannot describe.
That's the thing about photography...it utterly bewitches and perplexes me,
and unlike most anything else, manages to leave me speechless at times.
and unlike most anything else, manages to leave me speechless at times.
Which, if you knew me, you'd know that's no small task!
I most always have something to say!
I most always have something to say!
And as much as I fancy myself a writer (and have pretty much my entire life),
I find that at times I can communicate more with a wordless image t
han with all the flowery prose in my arsenal.
I find that at times I can communicate more with a wordless image t
han with all the flowery prose in my arsenal.
I just have to trust the image to speak for itself.
To let it say to each of you whatever it will.
Allow it to evoke memories, joy, sadness, wistfulness...to allow it subjectivity,
and in so doing, relinquishing it.
and in so doing, relinquishing it.
Giving it to the world, and saying "Here it is, world. Here I am...my art, me...love us both!"
All these emotions are behind a decision I've made.
When I finally re-open my Etsy Shop this Fall,
I want to begin selling my own original photography.
I want to begin selling my own original photography.
This might not seem like a big deal to you, but to me, it's a huge risk.
Selling antiques is one thing, but daring to sell my own art?
It's being laid bare, feeling insecure, vulnerable, afraid of rejection, ridicule...
Afraid of hearing
"Who do you think you are???
Poser.
Pretender."
But it's a risk I have to take.
And even if I don't sell a single print,
at least I'll feel as though I'm being true to myself.
at least I'll feel as though I'm being true to myself.
Following the muse where it leads, if you will.
If any of you choose to follow, that will be the icing!
:-)
Happy Sunday!
Posts
79 comments:
I think most of us are a little shy about exposing ourselves to others with our art...but it's taking that personal leap of faith sometimes that can change everything.
go for it!
I think it's a wonderful idea, Anne! I totally understand how you feel about it...that's why I haven't done the same thing yet.
You have such a gift with your photography--I'm excited to watch you grow your gifts with your new vision...you will do very well, I just know it!
This is certainly the right community to spread your wings in...we all "get it".
Dream big, my friend!
Julie
Julie
Oh, Anne~
Your words speak volumes to me. I have been painting seriously for over 2 years and until this year, never showed my work anywhere out of fear. I finally came to terms with the fact that I am just "me". I am a million different things rolled into one and I love to paint and take pictures:) If someone likes it, wonderful, if they don't...I tried.:) Just do what you love. Follow your heart and the rest will just fall into place.
You have an incredible gift. I will be first in line for your barn photo. It is gorgeous!!!
Blessings,
Melanie
Good for you Anne, go for it!! Can't wait to see it...
Tracey
I loved this photo. I didn't grow up on a farm, but my mom did, and this image brought back memories of visiting the farm she grew up on when I was a child. Thank you so much.
Blessings,
Marcia
Your work is just you, that is what makes it so unique. Each piece is just a tiny expression/ facet of you and you should be proud of what you produce. People will love your work as it is done with love and feeling. Once you start selling you will wonder why you didn't start earlier.
I can't seem to find the right words today, I hope that makes sense. I can't wait to see what you do as your photos are always so beautiful.
Anne,
I have alwayes loved the old barns in America, we don`t have them like that here, they are wonderfull sculptures,for me only to be seen in moovies now and then-------,"yours" are weathered,worn,and wonderfull, giving me just the right feeling of -back then.
So that`s my way of saying -oh yes Anne ,you open your shop with your art-your photografy-both in one ,-you have already prooved here ,you master it so very fantastic.
Have a great sunday,dear.
Hugs, Dorthe
Gorgeous sweet girl....and what a great idea!!!! I bet they'll sell like hotcakes ~ I love your taste Anne...hugs and love, Dawn
This is a beautiful photograph. Wishing you much success in your new brave venture - well done you for following your dreams! I'll be over later to sneak a peek, xxx
Go for it girl !!! do it !! it is nice to have your own etsyshop !!! .......i look foward to your beautiful photo's !!........have a happy funny sunday....love Ria...
Dear Anne,
As I say in my profile "Creativity stems from the voice inside of you just waiting to burst outside the shell of fear. Whatever your creative voice says to you is your version of art." I've taught others to quiet that fear and realize that it's really your creativity struggling to get out.......so let it rip! I'm so happy for you and your newfound freedom....enjoy and create. We all battle that fear at one time or another, so put it aside and come out and play!
Hugs,
Meri
You Go Clever Lady!You have a great eye (as they say in photographer-speak, my Brother-in-Law has a fantastic gift with his camera, have e-mailed you one of his `Barn` pics taken in the Perthshire district of Scotland).I love that barn and would definitely be in the queue to buy the print! Happy Sunday to you and yours. x
I felt the same way about selling my art and photography but as my husband kept telling me 'what's the point in taking photos if you are the only one who sees them'. So I took baby steps and looked around for sites that were free to upload to and get some exposure without being 'too' noticed. A year later I am happy to say that I have sold lots of my original work through RedBubble, Imagekind and Zazzle. Try these websites first Anne - you will be glad you did. And the best part is that when you sell a piece you do none of the printing or mailing, its all done for you. Simply! Good luck and...be fearless!
Another gorgeous photo! You have mad skills, both in your writing and your photography! Follow your dreams Anne! And, believe in your dreams!
"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams."
I'm glad to hear you are reopening your Etsy store!! You are so inspirational! You have so many things going, I simply stand in awe wondering how you do it all! You're an amazing woman!!
xo
Polly
one of your most charming attributes ...
you go out on a twig (er) limb!
take your inspired dreams and run baby run!
and along the way scatter that inspiration ... we'll pick up the pieces!
Beautiful barn, I was raised on a farm and my playtime was around an old barn like that:) So it triggers memories for me! Can't wait to see you ETSY full of your art! Have a blessed day dear Anne! HUGS!
Go for it Anne, follow your dreams, they will take you far! I gotta say I love what cityfarmer said... and you know we all love to pick up some of your inspiration! Theresa
I love old barns and used to take pictures of them on our travels and then draw them later. I can still see the kids rolling their eyes when I wanted to stop for yet another barn.
You are not alone in your fears about selling your own art. Fears such as it not being good enough, or whether anyone will buy it or even like it haunt most of us. But once you make that first sale (and you will--by the likes of your photos here), you will be on cloud nine!
How exciting to be walking on a new path. Enjoy!
Follow your dreams and your passion and things will fall into place.
You have a photographers eye and capture some beautiful pictures. Share it and see what happens!
Jane
Happy Sunday, Anne!
Barns bring out an emotion in me that is difficult to explain. It's like I have some long-hidden memory of a life that included barns. I've stood in a barn that had been abandoned and cleaned for years, and felt the sunlight through it's gaping boards...overcome...tears streaming down my cheeks...feeling like I'd come home.
Since I was a child, my mother said I always pointed out barns and chicken coops (the original solar housing) when we would travel on family outings. My siblings all will tell you that some day, if I'm lucky, I will live in a renovated barn. My dream...
Thank you for all the feelings your image stirred in me.
xoxo
Donna
Your photos are wonderful. What's the old saying that's something about "the only regrets we have in life are the things we do not try". Keep trying! Jan
Hi Anne, Thank you for the memories. I grew up on farms. We never lived in one place for more then 3 years because my dad always rented until 1959 when my grandmother passes away. Her will stipulated that my dad had to buy a new car and a farm of his own. He could no longer get used cars or rent. She was my favorite. She lived in Bloomfield, Iowa and when we go to visit her it was so much fun. The barns were fun to play in and all different. I can remember when I was in college going home on a weekend sitting on the steps talking to my dad when he milked the cows. Again thank you for the memories. I feel like you when opening my booth, will people like it, will they buy it. It is normal I think for all of us to have the feeling. Sorry this is a little long. Have a great day. Your Missouri Friend.
photos speak when the person taking them is skilled, passionate and has an artist's heart!! i like the way you left the windmill in the background! i'm a windmill *fan*
Go for it!!
I love the windmill.....you have a great eye!
LuLu♥
I LOVE that ol barn..and would definitely purchase a print like that! Get after it girl! You'll be great!
Love this post. I have always been a photographer-wannabe. My sweet hubby just gave me the nicest camera I've ever owned and I'm a little intimidated, but love it! I hope to take a course at some point. Love your barn pics!!!
Brave decision. Putting your art out there for all the world to see is akin to standing buck nekkid in Macy's window during the Christmas parade....for all the world to see!
Good luck.
Debbie
YUP, I'm a barn lover too...and I live in a 100 year old farm house I fondly call the Pink Chateau...(the pink shack)...the upstairs is a converted attic space, no closets and little heat and air. I use the highway side as a walk-in closet and the small room as a secluded bedroom.
I make the best of the space, having no out buildings, my house is a live-in studio, but will soon receive a reprieve of a garage/studio...I can't wait, I'm glad I live alone, it could be a struggle!
Good luck with the purge...you will purge!
Sharon
Anne your photos are amazing so why not! You will never know until you try! You are such a fantastic creative person you will always be successful.
I would be so thrilled if you would join me in my BARN CHICK BLOG PARTY on 8/6/10. Love this image!
Karen
You seem to be so talented in so many ways....and if that barn pic is any indication of your skills, you're sure to be successful! Personally, I love opening your blog and seeing your own work in your header. Kudos to you for taking that risk!
Beautiful post Anne! Good luck on your new venture...I'm sure it will be a huge success!
From the photographs I've seen on your blog, I think you'll be very successful at selling them. You take beautiful ones!
You never know if you "can do it" unless you try. There are days I still question myself if I'm doing the very best I can with my business. And even more, am I doing everything I can do to make my Country Roads vendors successful. I believe in not "living it safe". You've got to put yourself out there or you will never know the satisfaction of success! And by the way, my first little shop I opened before Country Roads was called, "Battered Barn". I too love barns!
Take care, Sue
I know you will do great! Don't doubt your abilities as a photographer for one second ~ Your beautiful pictures are what drew me to your blog!
And like you, barns are very dear to my heart ~ I think it reminds me of a rustic more simpler time.
It's beautiful, Anne. I love the character of the weathered wood and crumbling structures of old barns. They are definitely photogenic and subjects for painting too!
XX OO Diane
But of course you should sell your photos (art). They are compelling. Enough said. squeeze♥olive
Oh Anne, I'm happy for you! When I first put out my through the viewfinder photos to (gasp)sell, well it was a leap to say the least. AND, it was at a poorly attended craft show in a small town by my home town. I think one sold there. Then I listed them in my etsy shop and have sold a few. But, the point is the growth that I have made in taking that step and realizing that I don't depend on others for the affirmation that I need. It comes from above. And, that is all that matters.
BTW, I "get" the barn photo. For me, it's abandoned houses. They almost take my breath away.
I get what your saying, I still have this little voice inside of me that says your not good enough, we are way too hard on ourselves! you are amazing, talented and a gift to all that cross your path!!!
XO
Kristin
It's always wise to follow your dreams, Anne. Your photography is amazing. I think you'll find there is definitely a market for your images.
Have a great day! ~ Sarah
I say risk it! Risk it all and block out the negative. Your home is just gorgeous and totally ideal. I'm glad I found you...
I often feel it is easier to communicate through an image. :) Your photography is beautiful... you are going to do great with it on Etsy!
~Jennifer
I am a lover of barns too Anne & your photography is just gorgeous! Here's to following dreams ♥
Good for you Anne! I have wanted to print much of my own as well, but unlike you, I am not as brave. I am however, going to be sharing a lot of it with my family and friends. I am so glad to hear that you are enjoying it the way you are. I love life through the lens of my camera. It is great solice to me.
Thank you so much for your sweet well wishes. I appreciate it so much coming from you.
hugs
Thanks for stopping by!
I love your blog! Can't wait to see the pictures you put in your etsy shop!
Oh Anne, I could not agree with you more. I have been timid about my art even when people rave. You must take that step and believe in yourself.
You have inspired me today...thank you!
Hi Anne,
Always follow your heart and it will lead you to wonderful places.
hugs
Sissie
lots of things came to mind as i read your post as i can relate on so many levels. filling with self-doubt is something i do with great ease!
over the past year or so i have stuck myself out there and i still shudder everyday! but, i'm proud of myself for forging ahead, attempting to overcome my fears and living far outside my comfort zone!
the reward has not been in the selling, although there's certainly nothing wrong with that...the reward has been in the DOING!
I can't stop photo editing so I know where your coming from.....your work is beautiful.
I love that you keep striving to do more!
xxx
Carole
Hi Anne,
I love your photography and this picture of the old barn and the windmill.
Go for it! and follow your dreams and do what you love doing.
Have a happy week
Hugs
Carolyn
Trust me, Anne, from someone who can't take a decent picture most of the time, I love your photography and I have been in line for your Etsy shop to open, so when it does, I'll be there! I know what you mean about old barns. Whenever I drive by an old, abandoned farm, I imagine who lived there and what the place looked like long ago. They always seem to have a soul to me, maybe because I grew up on a farm. Anyway, follow your heart, girl, follow your heart!
Hugs and blessings,
Laurie
Glad your taking the leap. I tried a card recently of some flowers and was pretty surprised by the receivers response. You don't know until you try and the leap is the hardest part.
Anne, definitely go for it! Just do what you enjoy! I get so much more pleasure out of a sale of something I make rather than my antiques...
I was in the mountains this weekend and got some great shots of some old barns. There is a project in this area of the mountains in NC where old quilt patterns are painted on the side of the barns. You can take a riding tour and view all of them. I want to do that. Your pictures are beautiful. Love & blessings from NC!
How wonderful. I am taking slow steps in the direction of my art also. I want to incorporate my photography with my paintings. But it is always a vulnerable feeling.
Do what you love :]
Can't what to see!
Elizabeth
Anne,
You go for it, your work deserves to stand out and not just fit in. Your pictures in your postings are breath taking with such a story behind them, No fear my dear you are going to do great!
By the way, I hope you do not mind but I found the key to your home under the matt I let myself in to snoop around, I was sure to wipe my feet and not disturb anything. I was in awwww! and wanted to move in. It is a truely magical place with a heart of charm, I am in love!
I will visit soon.
xx
Dore
Anne, your photographs have a nostalgic beauty and simplicity that I adore! I wish you much success in selling your work. :)
Much luck to you Anne. I already gave you a heart. Your photos are amazing...and your words are as well. Love to come over and visit you...
Go for it Anne. It's obvious you have talent. I'm glad I found your blog... be blessed, bobbi
I wish you all the success in the world with your photography. I think you'll surprise yourself! You only fail if you don't try.
I love this photo. Old barns, if they could talk. All the years they have stood regal and tall doing what they were built to do. Ah the memories they hold.
You go girl I am sure you will do well.
Hey Lurd,
I'm not even reading one of these 63 comments you already have because I know what they say. 'Oh Anne, you genius, of course I'd love a fionna original in my house'. You are a total star girl, your eye is perfection. I know you will be a success selling your art on etsy. I also know you will be discovered soon & your farm girl photos will be a coffee table book on every good junkers table, including mine. I only wish you'd been with me in CO last week. Oh the majestic mountains, I made a couple of lame attempts to capture the beauty of it all & soon gave up. It was pure heaven. Now get a freakin phone like a normal person & call me! Lisa
I think your photography is incredible & I'm not surprised you are naturally wanting to step up to selling it in your etsy. Wonderful news. :)
That is a lovely farm photo ~ love the comp, the texture and the sunlight peeking through the trees: gorgeous!! Have a sweet week~
Anne, I say go for it! Why not? I have to admit I felt the same way but did it anyway. I have sold a few and it's been exciting. You shouldn't worry about what someone else will think, just do it for you! Congrats! Susan
I love those photos...and I think its a great idea...your good girl and you will sell your prints!!!! x0x0x0
FANTASTIC!!!!
I am finally making my writing
a bigger part of my life and I
totally support anyone who wants
to follow their muse. You've
proven over and over that you have
talents in both areas ~ words and
images ~ and there is no doubt
that you should hang out your
shingle as a photographer! This
is the kind of image that calls to
me, as well, so I have to think
that we aren't in the minority.
Go for it!!!
Thank you so much for all of your
sweet comments on P&H, most especially
the last one about my friend Kathleen's
journey with cancer. She lives six
hours away but I have been burning
up the roads between us. Your words
meant so much, to both of us!
Big hugs to you, today, Anne : )
xx Suzanne
Anne, Your images are always so beautiful. I too am a lover of photography and I know just what you mean by the image speaks for itself. Your images are always captivating. I would love to see you sell your photos. You have a keen eye.
Hugs,
Tammy
Great shot of the barn! I love photographing similar images too~
Good luck seeling your photography on etsy. I was thnking of doing the same thing. :)
Beautiful photos!! Thanks for sharing them with us.
Congrats on listing your artwork too!
Blessings~
Anne,
First off, what a beautiful, beautiful picture of this lovely barn. I love the tree hanging in front of it, the color of the wood, it says, "Be still." If I could frame your picture I would, and I would look at it often.
We're all blessed with different gifts, and though this is my first visit to your blog, I was struck by your 'eye' immediately. It would be a shame if you didn't share your gift with the world. I will definitely be following you and am looking forward to reading about your new journey on etsy with your pictures.
I am part of the barn chick blog party too, I hope you can go read about my barn!
Blessings,
Lisa ;-)
Hello Anne... what a beautiful barn... it says so many things to me, but mostly to cherish the past and all it encompasses... xoxo Julie Marie
OMG How exciting to sell your photography!!!!!!!I always love your photos, like the great barn you just posted. Congratulations - you go girl:)
~Debra
Blog: Capers of the vintage vixens
Hi Anne, I just love your barn pictures. I love the look of the old wood! Hope you have a wonderful weekend!! Blessings~~~ Daphne
I loved this post the first time and love it even more the second.
I'm sure you'll sell tons of original photography. Your talents show no boundary!
xxx
Great old barn pic, Anne! There is something so captivating about vintage barns. I've never been able to put my finger on it. I just know that I love 'em!
Liz @ the Brambleberry Cottage
http://thebrambleberrycottage.blogspot.com/
I love this beautiful old barn and what a gorgeous photo!
Well done!
Enjoy!
Cathy
Go For It GIrl! If these images are a sample of your work you have nothing to fear.
I came for the barn chicks party but will look around a while if that is OK.
You're post is so inspiring to me. I love painting and have been complimented on my work my whole life but I am scared to make that first move and try to sell any. Good for you!! I am working up the nerve to pursue my dream of becoming an artist! Wonderful post and I can't wait to see more of your photography :-)
~Alex
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